Recognized at Green Tug Transition Ceremony, the AI startup aims to redefine global maritime logistics through indigenous innovation
Maritime News, Cochin, Kerala, India : In a resounding endorsement of homegrown innovation, Docker Vision, a rising star in AI and Computer Vision, has been awarded a prestigious ₹1 Crore grant under the USHUS Program, a strategic initiative by Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) in collaboration with IIT Madras. The announcement was made at the Dedication Ceremony of Terra Maris, part of the Green Tug Transition Program held at CSL.
A New Wave of Maritime Transformation
The event was graced by Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Honourable Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, who praised the role of cutting-edge technologies in enabling a green and efficient maritime future.
Delivering the welcome address, Shri Madhu S. Nair, Chairman and Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard Ltd, highlighted the critical role of innovation, especially among India’s youth, as the industry undergoes rapid digital evolution.
“With the twin national programs — Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 — driving sectoral transformation, we need our youth to lead India’s technological leap across oceans,” remarked Nair.
Docker Vision: Pioneering AI for Smarter Ports
The ₹1 Crore grant solidifies Docker Vision’s position as a trailblazer in AI-powered OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology for the maritime ecosystem. Their solution automates the identification of containers, vehicles, and shipping documents, enabling real-time visibility, reduced manual intervention, and faster cargo processing at ports and terminals.
Voices from the Helm
Prajith Nair, CEO of Docker Vision, described the grant as a defining moment for the company:
“It’s not just a recognition of our innovation—it’s a validation of our mission to digitally transform the maritime and logistics sectors. This partnership with Cochin Shipyard and IIT Madras will fast-track our product development and global deployments aligned with Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.”
Athira M, CTO of Docker Vision, added a technical perspective:
“This grant empowers us to expand our R&D capabilities and push the limits of AI-powered OCR in complex, high-volume maritime environments. From edge-based systems to document intelligence, we aim to set global benchmarks for intelligent logistics tools.”
Aligning with National Maritime Visions
The recognition comes at a pivotal time as India advances its Maritime India Vision 2030 and the long-term Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which focus on smart, secure, and sustainable port infrastructure.
Docker Vision’s deep-tech solutions promise to not only meet global standards but set them—positioning India as a global leader in maritime digitalization.
About USHUS Program
The USHUS Program is a flagship startup support platform by Cochin Shipyard Ltd, in association with IIT Madras, aimed at nurturing maritime tech innovation across India. It provides funding, mentorship, and incubation to startups with scalable, impactful solutions for the shipping and logistics ecosystem.
